07/ 12/ 2006
Now that summer is in full swing, keeping cool is a priority for everyone—especially for those who work outdoors. If your business has employees who work outside, it's important that you share with them health tips that will keep them safe from the sun and heat during the season.
General safety tips when working outside
- Seek the shade whenever possible. Use lunchtime or even short breaks to get inside or into the shade.
- Cover your body as much as possible with clothing, including a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Apply 1 oz. (two tablespoons) of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen to your body before starting your day outside. Reapply every two hours.
- Drink plenty of water. While the amount of water you should drink can depend on your body type, environment and health condition, the Institute of Medicine recommends that men drink approximately three liters (about 100 ounces) and women drink about 2.2 liters (about 75 ounces) per day. If you work outdoors in extreme heat and perspire a lot, you should consider taking in even more.
- Check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or discolored spots. If you find any that change shape, size or color, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Beware heat exhaustion
A common heat-related illness, symptoms of heat exhaustion can begin suddenly and are often attributed to excessive exercise, heavy perspiration and not drinking enough fluids while in the heat. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include:
- Feeling faint
- Nausea
- Heavy sweating
- Ashen appearance
- Rapid, weak heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Cool, moist skin
- Low-grade fever
If you suspect one of your employees has developed heat exhaustion, the Mayo Clinic advises you do the following:
- Get the person out of the sun and into the shade, preferably an air-conditioned area.
- Lay the employee down and elevate the legs and feet slightly
- Loosen or remove the person's clothing
- Have the employee drink cool water (without ice) or a sports drink that contains electrolytes
- Cool the person down by spraying or sponging him or her with cool water and fanning him or her.
- Monitor your employee closely, as heat exhaustion can quickly escalate to heatstroke. If he or she develops a fever greater than 102 F, faints, is confused or has a seizure, call 911 or other emergency medial assistance immediately.
By keeping your employees informed of the risks posed by the sun and working outdoors for prolonged periods of time, not only do you help keep them healthy, but you help keep your business running smoothly as well. A healthier and better informed staff will lead to fewer absences and can help reduce any long-term risks your employees might face.
